Wellness
Monounsaturated Fats Explained
Discover monounsaturated fats, the "good" fats found in olive oil and avocados, and learn how they can benefit your heart health and overall wellness.
What is it?
Monounsaturated fats are a type of dietary fat characterized by having one double bond in their fatty acid chain. They are typically liquid at room temperature and start to solidify when chilled. Considered one of the "healthy" fats, alongside polyunsaturated fats, they are found in a variety of plant-based foods and oils. Common sources include olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, avocados, and most nuts and seeds. Oleic acid is the most common type of monounsaturated fatty acid found in the diet.
Why is it trending?
Monounsaturated fats are trending in wellness circles due to their association with the health benefits of diets like the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in these fats. There is a growing public awareness of the difference between "good" and "bad" fats, with health guidelines now recommending the replacement of saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats. Research consistently highlights their positive impact on cardiovascular health, which has made foods high in monounsaturated fats—like avocados and olive oil—incredibly popular for health-conscious consumers.
How does it affect people?
Incorporating monounsaturated fats into the diet can have significant health benefits. They help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels while maintaining or increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies suggest that diets high in monounsaturated fats can aid in weight management and may be more effective than some low-fat diets. These fats also have anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for blood sugar control. They also assist in the development and maintenance of the body's cells.